During early April each year, approximately 800 Yoshino cherry trees bloom in the Kaizu Osaki area for around 4 kilometers. This stretch of Lake Biwa's shoreline includes older cherry trees (estimated to be over 80 years old) alongside more recently planted ones.
The area has been designated as one of Japan's Top 100 cherry blossom viewing destinations, and it's also regarded as one of the eight scenic spots of Lake Biwa.
Like any flower event, the timeframe to catch the blooms at their best can differ slightly from year to year. Updates are posted on the official website closer to the season.
The Kaizu Osaki coastline of Lake Biwa is around 10 minutes by taxi from Makino Station, served by the Kosei Line. In typical years there is a shuttle bus that runs from the station to Kaizu Osaki, but that has been canceled for this year in efforts to prevent against COVID transmission.
For those who opt to drive to the area, it's around 30 minutes from the Hokuriku Expressway's Kinomoto Interchange. Parking near the area is limited, and many people park at Makino Station and either walk (around an hour on foot) or catch a taxi there.
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
